5300 34th Avenue NW in Ballard will soon be a new restaurant and event space affectionately named Canal 5300, confirmed by co-owner Stephanie Staley.
“Our goal opening date is still not locked in fully, but we are aiming for mid-September, depending on the Health Department and liquor licensing,” Staley told What Now Seattle, “We have a deep affection for the area because it is truly special, this really is a beloved spot.”
Stephanie shared with What Now Seattle that this was not their first attempt to open a brick-and-mortar, but due to varying complications prior venture attempts fell through. Then, Paul, Canal 5300’s co-owner and Stephanie’s husband, stumbled upon an opportunity while browsing a realtor’s mailing list. The current listing that is now Canal 5300 was for a space that had previously undergone a transformation as a high-end seafood restaurant, it later made a shift towards Italian cuisine.
However, the previous venture didn’t achieve the expected success, and the attempt to revert to the original concept fell short of recapturing the initial allure. A new chapter for the space began when Jewel Hospitality transformed it into an event space, catering to private gatherings until 2019. Unfortunately, the emergence of the pandemic led to its closure, leaving the venue vacant for two and a half years. In April of the previous year, lease negotiations commenced, bringing Canal 5300.
Aesthetically, Canal 5300 embraces the allure of natural materials and an aquatic atmosphere. Visitors will find imprints of sealife adorning the floor, custom handblown salmon lights, and wood panels integrated into the fixtures. A blend of wood, stone tile, and lush greenery, with a focus on locally-inspired flora and fauna, sets the tone for a one-of-a-kind experience. The venue’s design avoids typical nautical clichés, instead opting for a modern touch with a giant custom bar and panoramic windows overlooking the waterfront.
The culinary offerings, akin to the Pacific Northwest style, boast a fusion of influences and inspirations. Paul’s vision for Canal 5300’s menu includes a dynamic, rotating, and seasonal view, encouraging a fresh and exciting experience with each visit. Striving to strike a balance between cocktail sophistication and a brunch vibe that won’t break the bank, the venue will be aiming to host happy hours on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings from 4 pm to 10 pm, with weekend brunches before event rentals.
Above all, the entire team behind Canal 5300 is driven by a shared passion to foster an environment filled with excitement and creativity. The desire to constantly evolve and push the boundaries of culinary innovation is at the core of their mission.
